Port Pirie Hosts Diocesan Assembly
Port Pirie has welcomed Catholic leaders, of communities from across the region for the annual Port Pirie Diocesan Assembly, held over two days at St Mark’s Cathedral.
The Assembly, a key annual gathering for the Diocese, brought together approximately 150 attendees from across regional South Australia. It provides a unique opportunity for clergy and community members to connect, reflect and share insights from across the Diocese on a personal level.
The event concluded with the Chrism Mass which is a significant liturgical celebration in which holy oils are blessed and distributed to priests to take back to their parishes for use throughout the year, reinforcing unity and shared mission across the Diocese.
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Charles Daniel Balvo, Apostolic Nuncio to Australia, the Holy See’s ambassador and representative of the Pope attended the Assembly, alongside The Most Reverend Karol Kulczycki SDS, Bishop of Port Pirie, and The Most Reverend Gregory O’Kelly S.J. AM, Bishop Emeritus of Port Pirie.
It was also a privilege to welcome Father Francis Montero back to Port Pirie who is currently situated in Roxby Downs.
Port Pirie Regional Council attended the event following an invitation from the Diocese, with Deputy Mayor Alan Zubrinich and Director Corporate and Community, Luigi Mesisca representing Council.
Priests from across the Diocese travelled to Port Pirie for the Assembly, highlighting their critical role not only in spiritual leadership, but in supporting the wellbeing, connection and resilience of communities across regional South Australia.
Bishop of Port Pirie, The Most Reverend Karol Kulczycki SDS, said the Assembly remains one of the most important gatherings in the Diocesan calendar.
“The Assembly is a powerful expression of unity across our Diocese. It is a time where we come together, listen to one another, and renew our shared commitment to serving our communities with faith and purpose.”
Father Jimmy Pantin, Parish Priest, said the gathering strengthened both faith and community connections.
“This is a special moment each year where people from across the Diocese come together as one. It builds relationships, strengthens our shared mission, and reminds us of the important role faith plays in bringing people together.”
Deputy Mayor Alan Zubrinich said Council was pleased to support and acknowledge the significance of the event.
“It was an honour to welcome visitors from across the region to Port Pirie. Events like this highlight the important role faith and community organisations play in supporting strong, connected communities.”
Director Corporate and Community, Luigi Mesisca, said the Assembly reflected the broader strength of regional leadership and connection.
“The Diocese reaches into communities right across our region, and these gatherings highlight the important role local leadership, including our priests plays in supporting people on the ground. It’s a strong example of how connection and community leadership come together in regional South Australia.”
The two-day program included prayer, reflection and community engagement, culminating in the Chrism Mass at St Mark’s Cathedral.
